Northwest Tribes convene for Indigenous aquaculture summit in Washington.
Representatives from 18 Northwest Tribes, First Nations, and a delegation from the Northeastern United States have begun gathering for the second annual Pacific Northwest Indigenous Aquaculture Summit, hosted by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe. The event runs September 15–18 at the 7 Cedars Resort in Sequim, Washington.
Organized by the Kurt Grinnell Aquaculture Scholarship Foundation (KGASF), the summit brings together Tribal leaders, aquaculture students, researchers, and natural resource professionals to discuss the future of Indigenous aquaculture. Sessions focus on reviving traditional practices, advancing sustainable production of finfish, shellfish, and sea vegetables, and developing strategies for policy and enterprise growth.
“This conference is about coming together as Tribal communities,” said Jaiden Grinnell Bosick, president of KGASF. “Our waters and our foods tie us to who we are. By sharing knowledge across Tribal Nations, we strengthen those connections and create lasting opportunities for our children and grandchildren.”
The event also continues the legacy of the late Kurt Grinnell, a Jamestown S’Klallam leader, aquaculture pioneer, and advocate for Tribal sovereignty and food security. Grinnell, a descendant of Chief Chetzemoka, served as vice chair of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Council and was active on several regional and national boards before his death in 2021.
The foundation established in his name supports aquaculture education and scholarships, with the summit serving as a platform to combine cultural knowledge and scientific innovation in support of Tribal food security and economic development.
